Human rights lawyer Femi Falana has demanded the immediate prosecution of anyone found responsible for the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners who died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State. The incident occurred on September 17, and the circumstances surrounding the deaths remain under investigation. Falana called on the Niger State Attorney-General, Nasiru Mu'azu, to ensure a speedy investigation and prosecution of those indicted.
The Niger State Government has ordered autopsies and medical examinations to determine the cause of death. The Federal Government has also suspended NSCDC officers linked to the incident and set up a 10-member independent committee to investigate the deaths. The committee will examine how the suspects were arrested, the conditions under which they were detained, and the circumstances that led to their deaths. This move is aimed at uncovering the truth and taking necessary actions.
According to reports, a large number of people were detained following raids on locations suspected to be involved in illegal mining. A survivor alleged that about 65 detainees were kept in one small cell before the deaths occurred. He also alleged that a substance was sprayed inside the room before it was locked, although this has not been established as the cause of death. Authorities are still investigating the incident.
Falana emphasized that criminal accountability must form part of the response if the investigation establishes that the detainees died as a result of unlawful conduct or negligence. He recalled a similar incident in Lagos in 1980 when about 50 suspects reportedly died after being locked inside a police vehicle. Falana stressed the need for stronger safeguards for people held in custody.
The human rights lawyer also called for a broader review of detention conditions across the country. He suggested that detention centres should meet the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners, known as the Nelson Mandela Rules. These rules set out minimum standards for the treatment of prisoners and detainees, covering issues such as accommodation, sanitation, healthcare, ventilation, and humane treatment.
President Bola Tinubu has directed that the circumstances surrounding the deaths be thoroughly investigated. The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, also said the government owed the families of the deceased and Nigerians an explanation of what happened. The Niger State Government has constituted its own committee of inquiry, chaired by the state's Deputy Governor, Yakubu Garba.
The incident has triggered a wider government response, with the government taking steps to address the issue. The suspension of NSCDC officers and the setting up of an independent committee are part of efforts to ensure accountability and transparency. Falana's demand for prosecution is aimed at ensuring that those responsible are held accountable for their actions.
Key points
- Human rights lawyer Femi Falana demands immediate prosecution of those responsible for the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in Niger State.
- The Niger State Government has ordered autopsies and medical examinations to determine the cause of death.
- The incident has triggered a wider government response, including the suspension of NSCDC officers and the setting up of an independent committee.
